The Odyssey Questions Book 18: Why is it appropriate that Odysseus disguise himself from the suitors

Book 18

1. Why is it appropriate that Odysseus disguise himself from the suitors (with Athena’s help) as a beggar?
2. Why is it significant that Odysseus overcomes the swaggering beggar Irus?
3. What part does Athena play in this book? That is, what effect does she have on Odysseus and the suitors?